FOM - Task 6

Historical, cultural and philosophical approaches to massage
Here I am going to discuss the comparison of the development of massage in the Eastern and Western traditions. The role of certain people in the development of massage in the Western tradition. A comparison of Maori massage with western massage. The scandles that took place in the massage industry. How massage therapists formed associations to protect therapeutic massage in New Zealand. Contemporary massage and finally the body, body-mind and body-mind-spirit approaches to massage.
A comparison of the development of massage in the eastern and western traditions
I found that Eastern massage had been handed down over generations from healers over 2500 years ago. In eastern massage there are similar forms of massage from different cultural backgrounds such as Chinese, Japanese and Indian. All of which refer to energy work in the body. In Japanese energy is Ki; Chinese energy is Ch'i or Chi or Qi and in Indian the word Prana is used to describe energy. Their energy work is based on the Traditional Asian Medicine Model of Health which involves the body-mind-spirit approach. Whereas the Western approach to massage includes the body and the physiology of the body.
The role of Hippocrates, Galen, Ling, Metzger, Kellogg, Vodder, Travell & Cyriax in
the development of massage in the western tradition
Between 460 to 375 BC Hippocrates was a follower of a new health and medicine concept which had taken place in the West. Hippocrates was known for his incredible work as the father of modern Western medicine. He believed that the healer should work with gentle hands and be careful not to cause any more harm to the client while performing treatment. Hippocrates was also a founder of a medical school and an author of a number of books. A lot of his work was based on the disease and medicine in the ancient world.
Galen was the first to combine anatomy and medicine together. His way of work dominated medicine during the middle ages and until recent times. Galen would recommend the use of baths, exercise and massage. Galen studied in Egypt and became Marcus Aurelius's (the Roman emperor) personal physician.
Ling's understanding was that his Swedish gymnastics was used therapeutically to influence movement in the body, and to help those in need, overcome any discomfort that had arisen via abnormal conditions. Ling combined massage with physiology. Both the massage and gymnastics were known to relieve muscle tension, improve range of motion, improve circulation and promote general relaxation. The name Swedish massage arose from this and Ling was regarded as the father of Swedish massage.
Mezger was a Dutch physician who made massage an important component of physical rehabilitation. Mezger introduced the names effleurage, petrissage and tapotement to the massage industry, which as we know, are the most commonly used words today to describe a certain type of massage.
Kellogg; along with others, helped massage become popular in the United States. Changes began to emerge and physical therapy took a hold. Women were being trained in hospitals to use massage and therapeutic exercise as a way to help patients recover from injuries.
Vodder's technique was working with lymphatic drainage. He spent a lot of time studying the work involved in lymphatic drainage and eventually found a movement that would work well. He introduced this movement to others. His hand movements are still recognized today in the massage industry.
Travell & Simons introduced the neuromuscular technique/therapy.
Cyriax focused on range of motion and deep transverse friction.
A comparison of Maori massage (miri miri & romi romi) with western massage
Maori massage has been handed down over the generations from the kaumatua (elders) some of which now is incorporated into what is called the Tapa Wha Model of Maori Health. This includes working with the hinengaro (mind), tinana (body), wairua (inner spirit) and whanau (family). Which is similar to, but not the same as, the Traditional Asian Medicine Model of Health. Maori people like to work as one with the universe, by breathing in the energy from papatuanuku (the earth mother) then breathing the old energy out to ranginui (the god of the sky) helps to centre them or align them with their wairua (inner spirit), which in turn makes the body work / massage flow more easily and naturally for the therapist thus giving the client a smooth continuous flow of treatment. In some iwi (tribes), miri miri is described as light massage and romi romi is described as deep massage. Maori also use vibration, counseling, meditation, waiata (song), and karakia (prayer) as a form of healing. This can be done before, after or during a massage. Maori do a karakia (prayer) to ask for permission from their tipuna (ancestors) and Atua (god) before performing their body work / massage. That way they know they will come from their wairua (inner spirit) while performing a massage and therefore be able to give to their client, the best work possible for that treatment. Maori massage has a holistic approach.
The massage scandals of the 1800s and their impact on the massage industry
Massage in the 1800s changed for the worst. Nurses and women were being trained by doctors to perform treatment, due to the doctor's being overloaded with work because of the popularity that had arisen from massage. Later these women were offered free training in exchange for prostitution.
Due to this massage / prostitution problem the American Association of Masseurs & Masseuses was formed in 1943. There were specific educational requirements needed from individuals to be accepted into this school. This school was taught at a very high standard, regular written and practical exams had to be completed during their training.
The development of professional massage in New Zealand including MINZI,
NZATMP, TMA & MNZ
The Massage Institute of New Zealand (MINZ) was formed in 1985. Bill Wareham a massage therapist contacted all the other massage therapists in Auckland and arranged a meeting. The focus of MINZ was to have set standards, on-going education and annual conferences for further skill development.
The New Zealand Association of Therapeutic Massage Practitioners (NZATMP) was formed in 1989 by Jim Sanford. The original focus was to have educational standards, promotion of a professional image and to increase public awareness of the massage industry in NZ.
In 1990's the name was changed from NZATMP to Therapeutic Massage Association (TMA). There was a change in focus with the emphasis being on supporting and representing the needs of the qualified therapist, and been a voice for the massage industry.
Finally MINZ & TMA joined together and created Massage New Zealand (MNZ). There were several differences between the two associations however they have learned to settle their differences to make it work.
Contemporary massage
Contemporary massage comes from traditional techniques. Contemporary massage uses a physiological theory. This treatment mostly involves focusing on the body. However the focus of the massage, depends on the individual therapist. One may want to include other traditional massage techniques.
A discussion of how the following philosophical approaches to massage (body, body mind,body-mind-spirit) relate to the historical and cultural contexts discussed.
Body massage involves the physiological approach where the treatment focuses on the body and on the effects of that massage within the client's body.
Body mind massage can involve counseling as well as massage. This treatment takes into consideration the way people think as this can have an effect on the body.
Body-mind-spirit focuses on how your actions effect your body and may lead to a karmic effect on your body. All three body-mind-spirit are inter-twined.

I have discussed the development of massage in the eastern, Maori and western traditions and how their shared knowledge has impacted on the therapeutic massage industry. I am grateful for the wealth of knowledge generously shared by those who have past on, and for those who are still here, for now we as future massage therapists can integrate these techniques into our own massage therapy.

References
Bullock, O. (2009). Traditional Maori Rongoa School & Clinic, New Zealand: Parihaka.
McQuillan, D. (2009). Historical Development. Dunedin, New Zealand: Otago Polytechnic.
McQuillan, D. (2009). Approaches to Massage. Dunedin, New Zealand: Otago Polytechnic.
McQuillan, D. (2009). Contemporary Massage. Dunedin, New Zealand: Otago Polytechnic.
Salvo S. (2007), Massage Therapy. Principles and Practice. (3rd ed). Missouri, Saunders

Sustainability to massage

I am going to discuss sustainability in massage therapy and how sustainability relates to our profession, to ourselves and to our clients. I will briefly talk about how sustainability to massage effects our community and the relationships that our clients have with others. I will be discussing massage and enviromental sustainability, massage and human sustainability, massage and social sustainability and massage and economic sustainability.

Massage and enviromental sustainability
In massage therapy lighting, heating and electricity are regular costs we need to account for to maintain a safe massage practice. To help protect the enviroment we could dry our linen out-side or on a clothes-rack inside, instead of using a clothes dryer for drying linen. We could use the cheapest most affordable kind of heating that doesn't cause harm to our ourselves, our client or the enviroment. We need to stay aware of what materials we use in massage therapy and how that may affect the enviroment that we live in. Choosing healthy oils and waxes would cause less harm to the enviroment.
Massage and human sustainability
As a massage therapist we can support our client's into better healthy living by educating them about their body. We can encourage therapeutic exercises, body awareness and good health & well-being. Massage can reduce pain in the body thus giving the individual relief. There are many benefits to receiving massage for an individual and these benefits affect their future and their daily living. Massage also affects how an individual feels about themselves. Massage helps clean out toxins from the body. Massage is one way in which an individual can create self-care. As humans we need to be able to give ourselves the best in order to maintain healthy living. We also need continual individual maintenance by regularly up-dating our personal life skills, education and health care.
Massage and social sustainability
Maintaining social capital by working along the basic guidelines and expectations of massage therapy in NZ. Working as a team to help other massage therapists in their business as well as in our own business. Being a productive part of the community and joining together to help others is social sustainability. Sharing knowledge within the wider community about our experience in massage therapy and being open to receiving knowledge also. Adding to the greater whole is social sustainability which involves cooperation amongst and within the community. Massage can enhance a client's social sustainability because massage has such a positive effect on an individuals thinking, behavior and lifestyle changes, therefore helping them be part of the greater whole and contributing in the community more.
Massage and economic sustainability
Economic sustainability includes being able to cover all the costs of massage and creating interest also. Having affordable massage available to clients. Being considerate of other massage therapists and how they conduct their business. The room needs to be kept warm for the client's health so heating the room up before massage is essential to good massage practice, we need to be sure that our expenses are less than our incomings.

I have covered sustainability within massage therapy and how it affects our profession, ourselves and our clients. I have also talked about the effects it has on the enviroment and our community.


References
McQuillan, D. (2009). Sustainability of Massage. Retrieved 18/5/09 from http://elluminate.tekotago.ac.nz/play_recording_confirmation.html
http://www.wiley.co.uk/egec/pdf/GA811-W.PDF

Time Management

Time Management
I am going to discuss my time management around my study in massage therapy. I will discuss how my time management effects me at present and how I can change my time management to better my studies. I will talk about my strengths and how these strengths relate to my time management and I will talk about what aspects of time management I need to work on. Lastly I will talk about the steps I need to take in order to have better time management while studying.
Strengths
One of my current strengths in time management is that I always use a diary. I structure my day from when it starts in the morning until when I get home in the evening. I use the same diary for all my commitments so I can have a daily, weekly, monthly and yearly over-view of my timetable. By using the same diary I can see everything that I need to do. My diary involves my personal training hours which can vary between 6am-8pm, it involves our block courses for study and any practical massage I do outside of these hours. When I find space in my diary, I'll use that space for my assignments, checking e-mails, reading blogs and other study commitments that I have. I do not always schedule study hours in my diary because my work hours are different every week. At present I study when I have spare time.
Another strength I have is that I can adjust very easily to change. So if our timetables were to change or our due dates for assignments change, I don't get thrown off course. My job involves constant change which is great practice for my study.
What aspects of time management I need to work on
The aspects of time management I need to work on are procrastination, distractions and justification. I'm very good at procrastinating and doing my assignments on the day that they need to be submitted. I'm also very good at studying on the morning of an anatomy assessment and studying the day before a biology test. The reasons why I do this last minute study are I'm busy with work, I can't find the time or I'm just a procrastinator. I love being able to spend time with family and friends and if I can do something else instead of study; I'll commit to the something else and not the study.
I will create distractions for myself, and sometimes I see myself doing it deliberately. It seems like I have a built-in rebellion that doesn't want to study when I could. Which leads me onto justification.
I will come up with reasons why I deserve to do something else other my study. I'm aware that if I work on these issues, I will have more free time to do other lifestyle commitments.
Managing my time management
I need to start my assignments earlier so I can have time to check them and change them if I need to. By doing this I'll have more free time for other commitments and I won't be under so much pressure. I do see the benefits if I commit to starting my assignments early. I also need to schedule more study time in my diary, instead of waiting for the last minute to study, so I can take my time studying. I've realized I need to change my attitude towards study and look at it as something I enjoy rather than looking at it as though its a chore.

I have discussed my present time management and the strengths I have relating to my time management. I have also discussed what areas I need to work on in my time management and what steps I can take in order to meet these new challenges.

The ethics of professional practice

Here I am going to discuss the therapeutic relationship between a massage therapist and their client. I will talk about client-centred care, infromed consent, confidentiality, scope of practise, professional boundries, power differentials, and over-all the dymanics surrounding the relationship between a massge therapist and their client.

Client-centred care is about meeting the clients needs within a safe practise, discussing a plan with the client to have those needs met and involving the client in any dicision-making process to implement a plan to reach their goals. When the massage therapist uses this approach the client feels safe and is then able to visualise a positive approach toward their massage.
Informed consent is for the safety of our client. Although our client has booked an appointment and has agreed to having a massage, we still need to inform our client of any areas we need to be massaging during the session. This is to help the client feel comfortable and more involved in the treatment plan. If the client is not comfortable with getting a particular area of their body massaged then the massage therapist needs to respect that and must not massage that area of the clients body. Informed consent involves the client and creates trust between the client and the massage therapist. Salvo states, "because clients are vulnerable trust, along with open communication, must form the basis of the therapeutic relationship." (Salvo, p 17)
Scope of practise An important part of our profession is to stay within our scope of practise and not to step outside or go beyond our role as a massage therapist. We need to inform our client of what we can do and where our limitations lie. We are not trained to go beyond our area of massage for example; physiotherapy and counselling are not part of our profession. Basically we must stay within our limits otherwise we are crossing the boundries of other professions and most of all we could harm our client. Salvo says, "therapists are required to know and practise only within the scope of practise outlined by the state in which they practise. We need to know what the limits of our skill and our physical abilities are; taking on a client whom we cannot serve well is unethical." (Salvo, p 24)
Confidentiality is key in massage therapy. Everything our client says to us is totally confidential unless it is something that would or could cause harm to another individual. Clients notes need to be kept in a safe place which is not visible to other clients. This is to protect the clients anonymity. Confidentiality is essential and builds trust between the massage therapist and the client. Salvo states, "Confidentiality concerns each client's right to and guarantee of privacy and safety within the therapeutic ralationship. This concept means that the client's name, details of his or her treatment, and information shared by the client during sesssions are not to be divulged to anyone." (Salvo, p 23)
Boundries Setting boundries is vital to maintaining healthy relationships in massage therapy. Not crossing those boundries is just as vital. Salvo states, " A boundry can be defined as a set of parameters indicating a border or limit. A boundry, with regard to relationships, marks or delineates the differences between client's and therapists." (Salvo, p 25).
Because our profession involves touch we need to respect our client's boundries. Communicating with our client's about boundries allows them the security and safety they deserve. Salvo also states, "By respecting the boundries of others, we instill a sense of dignity and respect to our client's, to our profession, and to ourselves." (Salvo, p 25)
Power differentials When a client approaches a massage therapist they are in need of some assistance from the massage therapist , therefore putting themselves in a vulnerable position. The massage therapist has knowledge and experience in this area which places the massage therapist in an authoritive role. This is power differentials and the massage therapist needs to respect this and treat the client with compassion, understanding and empathy. Salvo says, "Anytime a power differential exists in a relationship and the person who weilds the greater power does not recognize or respect the boundries of the other, client abuse and client neglect can occur." (Salvo, p 19).
Power differentials happen naturally between a massage therapist and their client, therefore the massage therapist can use this position of power to care for their client; encouraging them to be open to healing in this manner.
Relationships massage therapy involves relationships with other professionals and with client's. The relationship between a massage therapist and their client developes overtime. This involves clear communication and setting healthy boundries. The massage therapist should always avoid any conflicting issues and stay within the role of their profession in order for their relationship to stay healthy. Massage therapists also have relationships with other professionals. In this relationship we can refer our client's on to other professionals if the client's presenting issue is beyond our capabilities. We can also get referals from outside of our profession. Our client's care is our main focus.
Transference and Counter-tranference basically the aim of being a responsible massage therapist is to keep the relationship between you and client strictly professional. Salvo states, "When a client views the therapist as someone other than a health care provider, the result is transference. Conversely, the therapist may experience countertransference if he or she sees the client as something more than a client." (Salvo, p32)
Transference can occur at anytime especially if your client is needy and vulnerable. If this issue arises the massage therapist needs to take steps to reduce the transference from getting out of hand. Counter-transference is when a massage therapist brings along their personal issues expecting the client to fix it, or when a massage therapist crosses the client's boundries and begins to feel close to their client. Counter-transference can occur if the massage therapist is not maintaining strong boundries. Detachment is a healthy solution in either of these circumstances. A massage therapist can still care for their client and have detachment.

Here I have outlined the importance of maintaining healthy relationships between the massage therapist and their client. I have covered the scope of practise used in massage therapy, confidentiality, power differentials, boundries, informed consent and a few other important factors of massage therapy.

References
Salvo S. (2007), Massage Therapy. Principles and Practise. (3rd ed). Missouri, Saunders Elsevier

Task 2 The Effects of Massage

The effects of massage on the autonomic nervous system
Autonomic nervous system (ANS) has two parts: one part is sympathetic which is a stress response "fight or flight" and the second part is parasympathetic which is rest and digest, relaxation and calmness. These two parts are like the yin and yang of the body. The bodies response is dependent on the type of massage given. At the beginning of a massage the sympathetic part of the ANS will respond to the touch with a fight or flight response, once the client feels safe this will then trigger the parasympathetic effect and the client will start to relax. The effects of massage strokes
Touching/Holding :
Touch is a very powerful tool in massage. How light or deep the touch is depends on what kind of massage you give your client. Touch should be in evasive and not cause any discomfort to the client. Holding the client is performed at the beginning and the end of the massage, this is to let the client know that you will be starting or leaving the body. This gives the client a sense of security.
Effleurage :
Prepares the body for deeper massage. Effleurage begins at a comfortably fast pace and progresses into a slower more deeper massage and then back to a faster lighter pace. Effleurage is like a breaststroke movement on the body which triggers a parasympathetic response leaving the client feeling calm and relaxed.
Petrissage :
Is kneading the body like you would with dough if you were to make bread. Kneading, cross-overs and wringing are different types of petrissage which effects the parasympathetic part of the ANS.
Compression:
Using a firm palm or two thumbs side-by-side on the body and pressing into the body while massaging toward the heart stimulates the muscles causing the body to relax.
Tapotment:
Tapotment effects the fight or flight part of the ANS. This is great for people who need to go back to work as it wakes the body up again. This is used by pounding, cupping and/or hacking the client after the massage and just before the touching/holding process used to end the massage.
Vibration:
Is used to wake up the nerves and sends a pulse through the body.
Other effects of massage
Salvo (2007), states that “Massage therapy and the response it creates within the body can affect the cardiovascular system, lymphatic and immune systems, skin and related structures, nervous and endocrine system, digestive system, and urinary system”. (p.88)
Blood flow:
Massage increases blood flow in the body which helps carry nutrients and send oxygen around the body.
Lymph flow:
Salvo (2007), says that, “Lymph circulation depends on pressure: from muscle contraction, pressure changes in the thorax and abdomen during breathing or applied pressure from a massage. Hence, massage promotes this circulation”. (p.89)
Muscle Tension:
Massage relieves muscle tension bringing the muscles back to their normal resting length. Deep tissue massage or sports massage will relieve any tightness in the muscles.
Connective Tissue:
Massage on connective tissue can help prevent scar formation. This can also promote connective tissue healing.
Sleep Patterns:
People can sleep better after a massage. Getting massage at the end of the day can promote a good nights sleep in some-one with sleeping problems. As the parasympathetic part of the ANS is triggered the client will start to feel relaxed.
Digestion:
Massage can aid in the disposal of wastes and nutrients throughout the body.
Blood Pressure:
Massage improves circulation in the body. Salvo (2007), states that, “Blood pressure is decreased by blood vessel dilation. Both diastolic and systolic readings decline and last approximately 40minutes after the massage”. (p.89)
Pain:
Massage can reduce pain. Salvo (2007), says that, “General relaxation brought on by massage therapy also has a diminishing effect on pain”. (p.90)
Mood:
Massage has a lot of positive effects via the ANS. It can reduce depression and anxiety. Long term regular massage will have long term positive effects.
Concentration:
The benefits of a 15minute chair massage can enhance alertness.
Satiety:
Clients become more satisfied with life and themselves.
Bonding:
Regular massage can have a positive effect on the relationship between the masseuse and the client. As the relationship grows over time there becomes a trust and a sense of security from the client and confidence in the masseuse begins to happen more easily.
References:
Elluminate Sessions. (2009). Otago Polytechnic: Effects on massage.
Salvo, S.(2007). Massage Therapy: Principles and Practice. (3rd ed.) Missouri: Saunders.

Task 2 The effect of massage strokes
The effects of massage on the autonomic nervous systemAutonomic nervous system (ANS) has two parts: one part is sympathetic which is a stress response "fight or flight" and the second part is parasympathetic which is rest and digest, relaxation and calmness. These two parts are like the yin and yang of the body. The bodies response is dependent on the type of massage given. At the beginning of a massage the sympathetic part of the ANS will respond to the touch with a fight or flight response, once the client feels safe this will then trigger the parasympathetic effect and the client will start to relax.
The effects of massage strokes
Touching/Holding :Touch is a very powerful tool in massage. How light or deep the touch is depends on what kind of massage you give your client. Touch should be inevasive and not cause any discomfort to the client. Holding the client is performed at the beginning and the end of the massage, this is to let the client know that you will be starting or leaving the body. This gives the client a sense of security.
Effleurage :Prepares the body for deeper massage. Effleurage begins at a comfortably fast pace and progresses into a slower more deeper massage and then back to a faster lighter pace. Effleurage is like a breaststroke movement on the body which triggers a parasympathetic response leaving the client feeling calm and relaxed.
Petrissage : Is kneeding the body like you would with dough if you were to make bread. Kneeding, cross-overs and wringing are different types of petrissage which effects the parasympathetic part of the ANS.
Compression:Using a firm palm or two thumbs side-by-side on the body and pressing into the body while massaging toward the heart stimulates the muscles causing the body to relax.
Tapotment:
Tapotment effects the fight or flight part of the ANS. This is great for people who need to go back to work as it wakes the body up again. This is used by pounding, cupping and/or hacking the client after the massage and just before the touching/holding process used to end the massage.
Vibration:Is used to wake up the nerves and sends a pulse through the body.
Other effects of massageBlood flow:
Massage increases blood flow in the body which helps carry nutrients and send oxygen around the body.
Lymph flow:
Muscle Tension:
Massage relieves muscle tension bringing the muscles back to their normal resting length. Deep tissue massage or sports massage will relieve any tightness in the muscles.Connective Tissue:
Massage on connective tissue can help prevent scar formation. This can also promote connective tissue healing.
Sleep Patterns:
People can sleep better after a massage. Getting massage at the end of the day can promote a good nights sleep in some-one with sleeping problems. As the parasympathetic part of the ANS is triggerd the client will start to feel relaxed.
Digestion:
Massage can aid in the disposal of wastes and nutrients throughout the body.
Blood Pressure:
Massage improves circulation in the body.
Pain:
Massage can reduce pain.
Mood:
Massage has a lot of positive effects via the ANS. It can reduce depression and anxiety. Long term regular massage will have long term positive effects.
Concentration:
The benefits of a 15minute chair massage can enhance alertness.
Satiety:
Clients become more satisfied with life and themselves.
Bonding:
Regular massage can have a positive effect on the relationship between the masseuse and the client. As the relationship grows over time there becomes a trust and a sense of security from the client and confidence in the masseuse begins to happen more easialy.

story of stuff

story of stuff
Wow I was blown away by the story of stuff. I found it interesting. I can see where she is coming from however I think that it is just life. People invent stuff, everyone wants to use it and then yea people can get carried away with products and purchases, and then comes greed, money and material possession. It becomes a rat-race or competition for the best, fastest or quickest yet in saying this there is different levels of this for each individual. We are pollutting our enviroment yet that's just the way it is for now, I believe personally it will reverse itself over-time. Nearly everyone around us is doing their bit in protecting the enviroment while others are destroying it just as quickly. In the end it's not up to us what happens anyway so my advise is don't by into it and enjoy life while you can.
Posted by Andrea Wereta at 3:52 PM 0 comments
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